The South Bend Art Center opened in 1947, realizing the longtime dream of Carlotta Banta, a kindergarten teacher at Perley School in South Bend for 35 years. In her last will and testament, Banta bequeathed her life savings toward the creation of an art center where “beautiful pictures would hang and where little children would come to look and to adorn the galleries with their own precious living images.” Through Banta’s vision and the dedication of civic leaders, the foundation for what would become the South Bend Museum of Art (SBMA) was established.

Carlotta Banta’s words reflect the three core pillars of SBMA’s mission: education, exhibitions, and collection stewardship. These pillars remain at the heart of the museum’s work today.

Since its earliest days, the museum has been committed to preserving and celebrating art. In March 1948, Mr. and Mrs. E.M. Morris sponsored the creation of the Indiana Room—an intimate gallery showcasing Hoosier artists—and donated the first six artworks to SBMA’s collection. Their contribution was made to “encourage the art and artists of Indiana,” a mission that continues to guide the museum’s efforts.

Education and accessibility are central to SBMA. The museum proudly serves over 950 enrollments annually in its studio art classes and provides hands-on art experiences in painting, drawing, jewelry-making, ceramics, and more. The ceramics studio, the largest and most professional facility in northern Indiana, draws students from across the region. Through partnerships, such as with the Murphy Raclin Museum of Art, our docent and art education programs reach over 1,600 local students annually, providing enriching art experiences to young learners.

For 75 years, SBMA has evolved alongside the city it serves. Today, it offers over 15 exhibitions annually, maintains a permanent collection of more than 1,200 artworks, and provides educational programming that serves over 2,000 adults and children each year. The museum is deeply committed to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that art is available to people of all ages and backgrounds through diverse educational programs, engaging exhibitions, and a welcoming community space.

As a world-class arts institution, SBMA believes in the transformative power of art to inspire individuals and strengthen communities. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, SBMA remains dedicated to its mission of fostering creativity, education, and cultural engagement for all.